Food and Concentration

Food and concentration are closely connected. Overeating can make the body heavy, increase sloth and torpor, and obstruct deep concentration. A good time for entering samādhi is when the stomach feels light, but hunger is not causing weakness or distraction. For this reason, the Buddha emphasized moderation in eating.

The ideal timing varies by individual. After eating, allow time for the food to settle and the body to feel light again. Observe what timing supports your concentration. The Buddha also instructed monastics to refrain from eating after noon. For lay practitioners, moderation in eating can help support the cultivation of calm and clarity.